Applies to 2006-13 models

Important: Frontal crash test ratings should be compared only among vehicles of similar weight.

This rating applies to vehicles other than the specific model and body style tested.

The Lexus IS was redesigned for the 2006 model year. There are two models, the IS 250 and IS 350, depending on engine size.

Structure

The driver's space was seriously compromised by intruding structure. Footwell intrusion measured as much as 42 cm at the footrest, and the instrument panel intruded as much as 22 cm. Both dummy feet were trapped by the footwell intrusion, and the brake pedal had to be cut off to free the right foot.

Injury measures

Measures from the dummy indicate that injuries to the left lower leg would be likely in a crash of this severity. Injuries to the left foot and right lower leg would be possible.

Restraints and dummy kinematics

The dummy’s head remained in contact with the frontal airbag, but the head was still vulnerable to contact with forward side structure because the steering column moved 13 cm to the right as the dummy moved to the left. The driver's seat tipped forward and toward the B-pillar. Furthermore, at forwardmost excursion the head had moved outside the open side window, partially due to the lack of a side curtain airbag deployment and leaving the head vulnerable to contact with side structure and outside objects.

Applies to 2006-13 models

Overall evaluation

A

Curb weight

3,580 lbs

Peak force

14,093 lbs

Strength-to-weight ratio

3.94

Tested vehicle

2011 Lexus IS 350 4-door

Roof strength test ratings can be compared across vehicle categories.

In the test, the strength of the roof is determined by pushing a metal plate against one side of it at a slow but constant speed. The force applied relative to the vehicle's weight is known as the strength-to-weight ratio. This graph shows how the ratio varied as the test of this vehicle progressed. The peak strength-to-weight ratio recorded at any time before the roof is crushed 5 inches is the key measurement of roof strength.

A good rating requires a strength-to-weight ratio of at least 4. In other words, the roof must withstand a force of at least 4 times the vehicle's weight before the plate crushes the roof by 5 inches. For an acceptable rating, the minimum required strength-to-weight ratio is 3.25. For a marginal rating, it is 2.5. Anything lower than that is poor.